A community of 30,000 US Transcriptionist serving Medical Transcription Industry

Switch to IC - GG

Posted: Apr 24, 2013

My previous employer provided my computer and all the software. I'm thinking about trying independent contracting since most of the jobs I've seen require your own equipment anyway, but how do you know what equipment to get? Each company seems to have their own preferences. I'd like to have what would work across the board if I need to work on several accounts. I've read about using a different tax form too, but can anyone tell me what else I would need to get started? A lot of the jobs available tell what you need to have for that job, but I would be purchasing and don't want to buy anything without having a job first - especially if it's just part time. Any advice would be appreciated.

get the job first, that is the hardest part - especially part time

[ In Reply To ..]
Then, get the computer. Otherwise, you could get the computer and possibly never get a part-time IC gig. They are hard to get.

Suggestion - here is what I would do:

[ In Reply To ..]
When looking at the job search board check out the requirements posted. Most will list Windows XP, Windows 7, Vista etc. From what I can tell most places seem to be Windows XP compatible and there are service packs you can download for free if need be.

Another think is check out the platforms they use, Emdat/Inscribe I know is compatible with Vista, but not sure what else. Check to see what are the more prominent platforms requiring such as Editscript (not sure if thats right, but its whatever platform Nuance has) and Fluency (DocQscribe). I have a Vista computer for MModal and of course Fluency (DocQscribe) is their platform.

Lots of companies use Nuance and MModal platforms. Once you figure out which computer is compatible with most all platforms, stick with that one. I am noticing a few ads stating their software is not compatible with Windows 7.

Also, the Infinity USB foot pedal seems to be the most frequently used foot pedal and I see it mentioned in quite a few ads. I think its universal and safe to assume you should be fine with that one.

Memory is also an also something to consider. You can add memory to your current computer by purchasing it at Best Buy, a lot cheaper than a new computer. Just call Best Buy and price check it; its been a while and dont remember what it runs. But knowing if your job's software requires "X" amount of memory is something you can ask their tech support and they can tell you how to check it as well and if you need to add more, chances are you will be fine and not have to add any.

The only thing is keyboard and headsets and of course with those, you can use whatever you choose.

Not that hard - MT

[ In Reply To ..]
Getting an IC job is not that hard...that's all I've ever done in my 12 years as an MT, and every one has been part-time. In fact, I just got 2 different IC gigs in the last week.

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